Course Description:

In this course, we examine U.S. politics, media, and popular culture, with a particular focus on the 2016 presidential election. We consider how feature films, television shows, news programs, social networking sites, and other media shape public perceptions of and engagement with U.S. civic culture.  We also consider the contested role of money in politics, including its impact on the marketing of political candidates.  Finally, we consider several themes that are particularly pertinent to the current political moment, including gender, race, immigration policy, and the role of social media in promoting a range of political movements (e.g, Black Lives Matter, Fight for 15, Immigrant Justice, and, on the other hand, the alt Right). 3 hrs. lect.

Readings: Most assigned reading materials are stored in the SHARE folder for AMST0102A on middfiles.  Other readings and assigned media are linked directly to the course schedule.  

Screenings:  You are responsible for screening a small number of films, tv shows, and other media over the course of the semester.  Where appropriate, you are encouraged to attend scheduled screenings, but if you cannot attend for some reason, you must still view the media prior to the class session in which it will be discussed.